The hotel, which has easy access to Highway 880 along with a 40-slip boat marina and boardwalk, will open October 2001. The city contributed $1 million to the project with financing from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The HUD loan for the hotel is part of Mayor Jerry Brown's plan to continue Oakland's development as a regional business hub and make downtown Jack London Square into a tourist-friendly area.

"The Homewood Suites appeal to business travelers that stay for a few nights or more, families vacationing with children and visitors seeking a weekend get-away retreat," says Adam Dubroff, a source at Oakland Hospitality LLC. The hotel offers a distinct style of rooms and services that are suited for extended stay guests. Each residential-style suite includes a fully equipped kitchen and separate sleeping and living areas. The Homewood Suites will have a hospitality center, an executive center, exercise facilities, and a 24-hour convenience store.